Violence in America

Historically we are a violent people and mankind’s history throughout the world demonstrates that we are violent. Laws passed protect us all from violence. But laws alone can’t eliminate violence.

We have seen time and time again that violence can be committed with a firearm. We have seen swords, knives, bombs and vehicles used to kill people. People kill people; it’s something that can happen out of anger, greed or even a political agenda.

Recently in Isla Vista, Calif., a young man used a gun and his vehicle to strike down innocent people. He posted video on the Internet and his family saw it and reported him. Unfortunately he still was not apprehended in time.

I suspect we will see an outpouring of anger about gun ownership in California. California has the strictest laws in the country about gun or firearm ownership. Some firearm manufacturers don’t try to sell firearms in California anymore. That’s not the answer either.

Muzzle loading and black powder firearms not controlled or regulated number in the millions. They can be old and originally used hundreds of years ago and still work. They vary from shotgun pellets to fifty-four caliber weapons that are very deadly.

I believe that a substantial number of incidents where firearms were used by those that had mental illness or having issues dealing with life could have been prevented by them not obtaining firearms. I believe that mandated reporters must report at the first indication of a problem.

I am a believer in the second amendment. Nothing will deter me in that thinking. Recently the governor of Georgia signed the guns everywhere law. If the victims in Isla Vista had the ability to defend themselves they may have stopped yet another terrible incident. And lastly I believe that teachers and school administrators should be allowed to carry firearms for self protection.

People kill people; it’s a terrible ugly fact. Disarming the people and taking away a means of self defense is a poor choice.